From: Interfaith Working Group
Subject: IWG Bergen County Scouts Letter
Date: Wed, 11 Aug 1999 22:09:06 -0400 (EDT)
August 10, 1999
Bergen Record
150 River Street
Hackensack, NJ 07602
Dear Editors:
In Paul Rogers' August 5 article regarding reactions
to the New Jersey Supreme Court's decision
overturning the discriminatory practices of the Boy
Scouts of America, he said, "the Scouts do not allow
leaders to talk about sex or religion, and
scoutmasters can be ousted if they do. The Scout code
requires leaders to refer youngsters to their parents
when asked about these issues." This is a very
sensible and non-nondiscriminatory policy for an
organization with a culturally-diverse clientele, but
how can the Boy Scouts claim to be a religious
organization, or an organization that imparts
religious values, if those running it cannot discuss
religion with the scouts?
Sincerely,
Barbara Purdom Christopher Purdom
Interfaith Working Group Coordinators
The above letter went out on IWG letterhead listing 17 congregations and
organizations and 65 clergy from 16 religious traditions. If you are in
the general Philadelphia area and represent a congregation or religious
organization or are clergy, let us know if you want to be added - all faiths
are welcome. We will also be happy to help start similar organizations in
other areas.
--
Interfaith Working Group Religious organizations, congregations
http://www.libertynet.org/iwg and clergy supporting gay rights,
iwg@libertynet.org reproductive freedom, and the
voice: 215-235-3050 fax: 232-0829 separation of church and state.
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